Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on keeping your mouth healthy in order to save you money. It starts with you taking good care of your mouth at home by brushing at least two times per day, flossing daily, and avoiding things that can damage teeth. Preventive dentistry also includes procedures performed by dentists that protect teeth against common dental issues, like periodontal disease and tooth decay.
This article will explore a few of the simple things that help keep the teeth and gums healthy for the long term.
Brushing helps remove acids, plaque, and bacteria in the mouth. Acids made by oral bacteria lead to tooth decay, and plaque turns into tartar when left on teeth for more than a day. Brushing twice a day helps minimize the exposure that teeth have to acids that can damage them. It also minimizes tartar buildup in the mouth.
The most crucial time to brush teeth is before going to sleep. This is the most vulnerable time for a person’s teeth and gums because saliva production is reduced during sleep.
Brushing does not give teeth complete protection from tooth decay because the bristles of a toothbrush cannot reach interdental spaces. Flossing once a day is enough to keep these tight spaces clean.
Using mouthwash is not necessary for good oral hygiene, but it does provide various benefits. For one thing, mouthwash helps clean the areas that brushing and flossing miss. Mouthwashes can also be infused with beneficial ingredients, like cavity protection, tartar control, or antibacterial properties. Mouthwash can even re-mineralize teeth with essential minerals like fluoride.
Sugar is bad for your teeth because oral bacteria eat sugars to create the acids that destroy teeth, so keep sugary drinks and foods to a minimum and try to rinse out the mouth with water after consuming them. Avoid sipping or snacking on sweet things all day long, as that ensures that oral bacteria have all that they need to damage teeth structures.
Drinking water helps remove food particles and sugars leftover from meals. Most public water systems in developed countries are fluoridated, so drinking water also helps re-mineralize teeth.
Habits like biting fingernails or using the teeth to open packages can damage teeth structures. Avoid such activities to keep teeth healthy.
Dentists perform dental examinations during these routine appointments, as well as preventive procedures like teeth cleanings, dental sealants, and fluoride treatments. Issues detected can also be addressed during these appointments.
Taking good care of your teeth and gums can save you money in the long run. Call or stop by our Austin clinic to learn more about preventive dentistry.
Request an appointment here: https://austinprimarydental.com or call Austin Primary Dental at (512) 808-5651 for an appointment in our Austin office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventive Dentistry in Austin, TX.
Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year. However, many people skip this essential step because they do not want to spend time at a dental office. Fortunately, a preventive dentist provides many valuable services that can help your smile last a lifetime and stop future issues before…
Many people do not know that regular dental checkups are the most important preventive dentistry procedures against oral cancer. The dentist’s objective is to prevent and diagnose any issue as early as possible, when treatment is easier. Preventive dentistry is all about keeping the oral cavity healthy for a long time. Oral cancer screening is…
A visit to our dental office is probably the single most effective way to prevent infections, cavities, and oral diseases. We have found that people who visit the dental office on a regular basis have significantly fewer problems with their teeth. When you come to our dental office at least once every six months, we…
For anyone who grinds his or her teeth at night, there are possible options for at-home treatment. Grinding teeth can wear down the tooth enamel and cause jaw pain. Since the teeth grinding occurs at night, it can be difficult for the individual to prevent it without extra assistance. We can determine your specific needs…
No one should have to live with the challenges of having crooked teeth. Clear braces…
Seeing a preventive dentist does not usually take more than an hour.
The safest sedation dentistry option depends on factors like the patient’s medical history, current medications…
Dental restorative procedures like implant supported dentures can be a solution to partial or complete…
Signs that a filling needs to be replaced include the following.
Gum disease is caused by the same type of bacteria that cause tooth decay. It…
